Subaru Solterra 2023-2026 Owner's Manual: Headlight switch

In the Subaru Solterra, the headlight system can be controlled either manually or automatically, offering flexibility and intelligent adaptation to changing driving conditions.

Turning on the headlights

By operating the switch, the lighting system of the Subaru Solterra activates in different modes depending on the selected position:

1. U.S.A.
2. Canada

1. The side marker lights, parking lights, tail lamps, license plate illumination, instrument panel lighting, and daytime running lights are activated.
2. The headlights, along with all previously listed lights (except daytime running lights), are turned on for full nighttime visibility.
3. The Subaru Solterra automatically switches the headlights, daytime running lights, and associated lighting on or off based on ambient light conditions.
4. The daytime running lights are deactivated (U.S.A. models only).

■ AUTO mode can be used when

The automatic lighting mode in the Subaru Solterra is available when the power switch is in the ON position, allowing the system to manage lighting without driver intervention.

■ Daytime running light system

• The Subaru Solterra daytime running lights use the same lighting units as the parking lights but operate at higher brightness levels to improve visibility during daytime driving.
• To enhance the visibility of the Subaru Solterra to other road users, the daytime running lights activate automatically when the following conditions are met:

  (These lights are not intended for nighttime use.)

  • The EV system is active
  • The parking brake is released
  • The headlight switch is set to or position
  • The surrounding environment is sufficiently bright

Once activated, the daytime running lights of the Subaru Solterra will remain illuminated even if the parking brake is applied again.

• For U.S.A. models, the daytime running lights can be manually turned off if needed.
• Compared to standard headlight usage, the Subaru Solterra daytime running lights consume less energy and offer longer service life, contributing to improved efficiency.

■ Headlight control sensor

The Subaru Solterra is equipped with a light sensor that detects ambient brightness and automatically controls the headlights. If this sensor is obstructed by objects placed on the dashboard or by materials attached to the windshield, its performance may be compromised.

Obstruction of the sensor may result in improper headlight activation or delayed response in the Subaru Solterra automatic lighting system.

■ Automatic light off system

• When the headlights are on in the Subaru Solterra: they will automatically turn off approximately 30 seconds after the power switch is set to ACC or OFF and a door is opened and then closed. (The lights will turn off immediately if the key button is pressed after all doors are closed.)
• When only the tail lights are active: they will automatically switch off once the power switch is turned to ACC or OFF and the driver's door is opened.

To reactivate the lights in the Subaru Solterra, switch the power back to ON or cycle the light switch from or back to or position.

■ Light reminder buzzer

A warning buzzer will sound in the Subaru Solterra if the power switch is turned OFF and the driver's door is opened while the lights are still on, helping prevent battery drain.

■ Automatic headlight leveling system

The Subaru Solterra automatically adjusts headlight beam height based on passenger load and cargo weight. This ensures optimal road illumination without dazzling oncoming traffic.

■ Windshield wiper linked headlight illumination

When driving the Subaru Solterra during daylight with the headlight switch set to , activation of the windshield wipers will trigger the headlights to turn on automatically after a short delay, improving visibility to other drivers.

■ 12-volt battery-saving function

To protect the Subaru Solterra 12-volt battery from unnecessary discharge, if the lights are left on after the power switch is turned OFF, the system will automatically switch them off after approximately 20 minutes.

If any of the following actions are performed, the battery-saving timer resets and restarts:

• Operating the headlight switch
• Opening or closing any door

■ If "Headlight System Malfunction Visit Your Dealer" is displayed on the multi-information display

This message indicates a potential issue with the Subaru Solterra lighting system.

Have the Subaru Solterra inspected by an authorized SUBARU dealer as soon as possible.

■ Customization

Various lighting system parameters in the Subaru Solterra, such as sensor sensitivity, can be customized to suit driver preferences.

NOTICE

■ To prevent 12-volt battery discharge

Avoid leaving the lights on in the Subaru Solterra longer than necessary when the EV system is not running.

Turning on the high beam headlights

1. With the headlights active, push the lever away from you to engage the high beams in the Subaru Solterra.

To deactivate high beams, pull the lever back to its neutral position.

2. Pull the lever toward you and release it to flash the high beams once.

The Subaru Solterra allows high beam flashing regardless of whether the headlights are currently on or off, improving signaling flexibility in various driving scenarios.

This advanced lighting system in the Subaru Solterra ensures maximum visibility, safety, and energy efficiency across all driving environments.